Unlike the Normans, whose virtue seems dependent on their whims, Cedric sticks fast to his values, even when they cause him discomfort. He thus shows Saxon strength and contributes to the book’s argument for the importance of the Saxon strand of English identity. It also says something about Cedric that the same pride that caused him to disown Ivanhoe (a decision he still clearly feels conflicted about) animates his decision to show hospitality to his avowed enemies.